Accountability

Yesterday was Veterans Day. I’m very thankful for those who have and presently serve in the Armed Forces. I think of the word accountability a lot in work, owning a business and running a lacrosse team. I’m reminded of General Eisenhower, the night before the D-Day invasion landings in Normandy took place. Some historians and authors have called it “the most important day in the 20th Century.” In the event the invasion failed, General Eisenhower drafted a note which he kept in his wallet,

“Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area have failed to gain a satisfactory foothold and I have withdrawn the troops. My decision to attack at this time and place was based on the best information available. The troops, the air and the Navy did all that bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt it is mine alone.”

The landings were not perfect… but he never had to “use” that note. Eisenhower eventually became the 34th President of the United States.